Constructional element

ABSTRACT

Constructional element A hollow constructional element 100, such as a block, suitable for construction of structures from a plurality of such constructional elements, is provided. The constructional element 100 has a part 101 having a plurality of side walls 111 that taper towards an end wall 21. The plurality of side walls 111 define a male part 115 and a female part 117, arranged to receive another such male part of another such constructional element. In this way, a plurality of such constructional elements may be nested for storage, for example. The end wall 121 has 10 a plurality of male coupling members 123, that define a channel 125 arranged to receive two edges of side walls of two other such constructional elements. In this way, a plurality of such constructional elements may be releasably coupled in a stacked structure. Applications include construction and toys.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to constructional elements, such as blocks, suitable for construction of structures from such constructional elements.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

Known constructional elements, such as blocks, are typically coupleable such that various structures may be constructed, such as walls, shelters, abstract structures, etc. However, transportation and/or storage of the constructional elements may be problematic, due to a size and/or shape and/or configuration and/or density of the constructional elements.

Constructional elements have been developed as constructional toys, particularly constructional toys for children, for example.

Known constructional toys or building bricks or blocks are typically composed of plastics material and coupleable such that various structures may be constructed, usually by children. However, the size of the toys may be such that a scale of a structure is relatively limited and/or a relatively large number of the toys are required. Further, transportation and/or storage of the toys may be problematic, due to a size and/or shape and/or configuration and/or density of the toys. In addition, the size of the toys may present a choking hazard to younger children. Furthermore, coupling and/or uncoupling the toys may require relatively large forces.

Example embodiments of the present invention aim to address at least one of the issues identified above, or related issues.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a hollow constructional element comprising:

a first part comprising a plurality of first side walls arranged to taper towards a first end wall comprising a plurality of male coupling members;

wherein edges of the plurality of first side walls define a first opening opposed to the first end wall;

wherein the plurality of male coupling members define a channel therebetween extending between the plurality of first side walls;

wherein an outer surface of the plurality of first side walls defines a first male part; and

wherein an inner surface of the plurality of first side walls defines a first female part;

wherein the first female part is arranged to receive another first male part of another such constructional element through the first opening;

wherein the channel is arranged to receive two edges of first side walls of two other such adjacent constructional elements between the plurality of male coupling members; and

wherein the edges of opposed first side walls are arranged to be received by channels in two other such adjacent constructional elements.

In this way, a first constructional element may be inserted into a second constructional element, for example, to minimize volume for storage and/or transportation and/or disposal. In this way, a plurality of constructional elements may be nested by inserting a constructional element into an adjacent constructional element. It will be appreciated by the person skilled in the art that the tapering is sufficient to allow the first female part to receive the another first male part of the another such constructional element through the first opening. In an example embodiment, the first female part is arranged to receive a portion of a height of the another first male part of the another such constructional element through the first opening, wherein the portion of the height is greater than one selected from a list comprising: 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%. 90%, 92.5%, 95%, 97.5%.

In this way, a constructional element may, for example, be held or fit across two adjacent constructional elements in a lower layer, thereby permitting a plurality of layers of constructional elements, each layer comprising a plurality of layers of constructional elements, to be constructed, with constructional elements in a layer releasably coupled to constructional elements in upper and lower layers.

In an example embodiment, the constructional element comprises a constructional toy. In an example embodiment, the constructional element is a constructional toy. Herein, a constructional toy is referred to as a toy, for brevity.

In this way, a first toy may be inserted into a second toy, for example, to minimize volume for storage and/or transportation and/or disposal. In this way, a plurality of toys may be nested by inserting a toy into an adjacent toy.

In this way, a toy may, for example, be held or fit across two adjacent toys in a lower layer, thereby permitting a plurality of layers of toys, each layer comprising a plurality of layers of toys, to be constructed, with toys in a layer releasably coupled to toys in upper and lower layers.

In an example embodiment, the plurality of male coupling members define the channel therebetween extending between opposed first side walls.

In an example embodiment, the channel is symmetric. In an example embodiment, the channel, in cross-section, is U-shaped. In an example embodiment, the channel is V-shaped.

In an example embodiment, the channel is square. In an example embodiment, the channel is rectangular.

In an example embodiment, the channel extends fully from a first sidewall of the plurality of sidewalls to an opposed first sidewall of the plurality of sidewalls. In an example embodiment, the channel extends partially from a first sidewall of the plurality of sidewalls to an opposed first sidewall of the plurality of sidewalls.

In an example embodiment, an edge formed between a side wall of the plurality of first side walls and the first end wall is arranged to define a half channel. In an example embodiment, edges formed between the plurality of first side walls and the first end walls are arranged to define half channels.

In this way, the half channels of two adjacent constructional elements thus define a channel, as described previously.

In an example embodiment, an edge formed between a side wall of the plurality of first sidewalls and the first end wall is bevelled.

In an example embodiment, the plurality of male coupling members are sized the same. In an example embodiment, the plurality of male coupling members is arranged symmetrically on the first end wall. In an example embodiment, the plurality of male coupling members is arranged asymmetrically on the first end wall. In an example embodiment, the male coupling members are cubic. In an example embodiment, the male coupling members are cuboidal. In an example embodiment, the male coupling members are cylindrical.

In an example embodiment, the first part comprises only two male coupling members. In an example embodiment, the two male coupling members are sized the same. In an example embodiment, the first part comprises only one channel between the two male coupling members. In an example embodiment, the first part comprises only four first sidewalls. In an example embodiment, the first sidewalls are arranged mutually perpendicularly. In an example embodiment, a length of the first part is equal to twice a width of the first part. In an example embodiment, the first end wall is rectangular. In an example embodiment, a length of the first end wall is equal to twice a width of the first end wall.

In an example embodiment, a length of the first part is equal to an integer multiple of a width of first part. In an example embodiment, a length of the first end wall is equal to an integral multiple of a width of the first end wall.

In an example embodiment, a height of a first side wall of the plurality of first side walls is equal to a width of the first end wall. In an example embodiment, a height of a first side wall of the plurality of first side walls is greater than a width of the first end wall. In an example embodiment, a height of a first side wall of the plurality of first side walls is less than a width of the first end wall. In an example embodiment, a height of a first side wall of the plurality of first side walls is equal to an integral multiple of a width of the first end wall.

In an example embodiment, the first female part comprises no inward protrusions. In an example embodiment, the first male part comprises no outward protrusions.

In an example embodiment, the second female part comprises no inward protrusions. In an example embodiment, the second male part comprises no outward protrusions.

In an example embodiment, the constructional element comprises a second part, arranged to couple with the first part, comprising a plurality of second side walls and a second end wall comprising a plurality of female coupling members;

wherein edges of the plurality of second side walls define a second opening opposed to the second end wall;

wherein an outer surface of the plurality of second side walls defines a second male part; and

wherein an inner surface of the plurality of second side walls defines a second female part;

wherein the second female part is arranged to receive another second male part of another such constructional element through the second opening; and

wherein the plurality of female coupling members are arranged to receive male coupling members of a first part of another such constructional element.

In an example embodiment, the second part is arranged to couple with the first part, wherein the second male part of the second part is arranged to be received by the first female part of the first part through the first opening.

In an example embodiment, the plurality of second side walls is arranged to taper away from the second end wall.

In an example embodiment, the second part is arranged to couple with the first part, wherein the second part and the first part are pivotally coupled.

In an example embodiment, the second part is arranged to couple with the first part, wherein a side wall of the plurality of second side walls is pivotally coupled to a side wall of the plurality of first side walls.

In an example embodiment, the second part is arranged to couple with the first part, wherein an edge of a side wall of the plurality of second side walls is pivotally coupled to an edge of a side wall of the plurality of first side walls.

In an example embodiment, the plurality of second side walls is arranged to taper towards the second end wall.

It will be appreciated by the person skilled in the art that the tapering is sufficient to allow the second female part to receive a second male part of another such constructional element. In an example embodiment, the second female part is arranged to receive a portion of a height of the another second male part of the another such constructional element through the second opening, wherein the portion of the height is greater than one selected from a list comprising: 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%. 90%, 92.5%, 95%, 97.5%.

In an example embodiment, a female coupling member comprises a shape selected from a list comprising: cubic, cuboidal, tubular, cylindrical, hemispherical, conical, frustoconical, pyramidal, prismatic, hexagonal prismatic and octagonal prismatic. In an example embodiment, the female coupling member is arranged to taper away from an open end of the female coupling member.

In an example embodiment, a male coupling member comprises a shape selected from a list comprising: cubic, cuboidal, tubular, cylindrical, hemispherical, conical, frustoconical, pyramidal, prismatic, hexagonal prismatic and octagonal prismatic. In an example embodiment, the male coupling member is arranged to taper away from a base of the male coupling member.

It will be appreciated by the person skilled in the art that the tapering is sufficient to allow the female coupling member to receive a male coupling member of another such constructional element.

In an example embodiment, the first part comprises three, four or six sidewalls. In an example embodiment, the second part comprises three, four or six sidewalls.

In an example embodiment, the constructional element comprises paper pulp.

In this way, the constructional element may be formed, for example moulded or pressed, from recycled waste paper. This reduces an environmental footprint of the constructional element. Furthermore, the constructional element may be recycled. Additionally, the constructional element may be biodegradable.

Since paper pulp has a relatively low density, the constructional element may be of relatively low mass or weight for easy transportation. Furthermore, a plurality of constructional elements may also be of a relatively low mass or weight, facilitating handling of, for example, a nested stack of the plurality of constructional elements or a structure assembled from the plurality of interconnected constructional elements. In addition, such a relatively low mass or weight structure minimises a risk of injury to, for example, a user if the structure is knocked over. In addition, such a relatively low mass or weight structure minimises a risk of injury to, for example, a child if a toy structure comprising a plurality of toys as described is knocked over.

Paper pulp is also non-toxic, and may present a lower choking hazard than conventional construction constructional elements.

Paper pulp may be coloured or dyed or tinted, as required. In this way, the constructional element may be decorated, for example, with pens, paints, or stickers. Furthermore, a plurality of constructional elements may be coupled together with, for example, adhesive, glue or sticky backed plastic, to create a more permanent structure from the plurality of interconnected constructional elements.

In an example embodiment, the constructional element comprises moulded paper pulp.

In an example embodiment, the constructional element comprises single pressed paper pulp. In an example embodiment, the constructional element comprises double pressed paper pulp.

In this way, the constructional element may be more cost effectively manufactured. Furthermore, the manufacturing process is more environmentally friendly.

In an example embodiment, the constructional element comprises a smooth outer surface. In this way, aesthetics of the constructional element may be improved. Further, a decorative surface area of the constructional element may be maximised.

In an example embodiment, the constructional element comprises a plastics material. In an example embodiment, the constructional element comprises one selected from a list comprising: polystyrene (PS), polyethylene (PE), high density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyester or polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyamide (PA) and polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC).

In an example embodiment, the constructional element comprises rubber, wood, or silicon.

In an example embodiment, the constructional element comprises one selected from a list comprising: a metal, an alloy and an aluminium alloy.

According to the present invention there is provided an apparatus as set forth in the appended claims. Other features of the invention will be apparent from the dependent claims, and the description which follows.

BRIEF INTRODUCTION TO THE DRAWINGS

For a better understanding of the invention, and to show how embodiments of the same may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying diagrammatic drawings in which:

FIG. 1A shows a schematic perspective view of a constructional element according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 1B shows a schematic underneath perspective view of the constructional element of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2 shows a schematic perspective view of a constructional element according to an example embodiment of a related invention;

FIG. 3 shows a schematic perspective view of a plurality of the constructional elements of FIGS. 1A & 1B, in use;

FIG. 4 shows a schematic perspective view of a plurality of the constructional elements of FIGS. 1A, 1B & 2, in use;

FIG. 5 shows a schematic perspective view of a constructional element according to another example embodiment, comprising a first part and a second part;

FIG. 6A shows a schematic perspective view of the first part of the constructional element of FIG. 5;

FIG. 6B shows a schematic perspective view of the second part of the constructional element of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 shows a schematic perspective view of a constructional element according to yet another example embodiment, arranged in a first configuration;

FIG. 8A shows a schematic perspective view of the constructional element of FIG. 7, arranged in a second configuration;

FIG. 8B shows a schematic underneath perspective view of the constructional element of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9A shows a schematic perspective view of a constructional element according to a related invention, arranged in a first configuration;

FIG. 9B shows a schematic perspective view of the constructional element of FIG. 9A, arranged in a second configuration;

FIG. 10 shows a schematic perspective view of a plurality of the constructional elements of FIG. 7, in use;

FIG. 11A shows a schematic perspective view of a constructional element according to still yet another example embodiment, arranged in a first configuration;

FIG. 11B shows a schematic underneath perspective view of the constructional element of FIG. 11A;

FIG. 12 shows a plurality of constructional elements according to example embodiments, including constructional elements of FIGS. 12A & 12B, in use;

FIG. 13 shows a schematic perspective view of a constructional element according to still yet another example embodiment, arranged in a first configuration.

DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

FIGS. 1A & 1B show a constructional element 100 according to an example embodiment. The constructional element 100 is moulded as one piece from paper pulp, having relatively smooth surfaces and a relatively uniform wall thickness in a range 0.5-5 mm. The constructional element 100 is hollow, generally cuboidal having five walls and has approximate dimensions 150 mm length by 75 mm width by 75 mm height. These dimensions are illustrative only and the size of embodiments of the present invention can vary greatly from this example.

The constructional element 100 comprises a first part 101. The first part 101 has four generally trapezoidal, planar first side walls 111 a, 111 b, 111 c & 111 d, arranged mutually perpendicularly. Opposed first side walls (i.e. 111 a & 111 c, 111 b & 111 d) are similarly sized. The first side walls 111 a, 111 b, 111 c & 111 d thus generally taper towards a rectangular first end wall 121. The free edges 113 a, 113 b, 113 c & 113 d of the first side walls 111 a, 111 b, 111 c & 111 d respectively define a rectangular first opening 131, opposed to the first end wall 121, which is free from obstruction.

The first end wall 121 comprises two male coupling members 123 a & 123 b, that protrude outwards. The two male coupling members 123 a & 123 b are generally cuboidal, having planar outer surfaces. The two male coupling members 123 a & 123 b define a pointed U-shaped channel 125, that extends across the end wall 121 between the first sidewall 111 a and the opposed first sidewall 111 c. Edges formed between the first side walls 111 a, 111 b, 111 c & 111 d and the first end wall 121 define half channels 125 a, 125 b, 125 c (not shown) & 125 d (not shown), respectively. The half channels 125 a, 125 b, 125 c & 125 d are substantially J-shaped. Thus, two half channels 125 a, 125 b, 125 c & 125 d arranged adjacently, for example, by arranging two such constructional elements 100 adjacently, define a similar channel 125 also.

The outer surfaces of the first side walls 111 a, 111 b, 111 c & 111 d define a first male part 115. The first male part 115 is substantially convex, free from outward protrusions or obstructions. The inner surfaces of the first side walls 111 a, 111 b, 111 c & 111 d define a first female part 117. The first female part 117 is substantially concave, free from inward protrusions or obstructions. The first female part 117 is arranged to receive a first male part 115 of another such constructional element 100 through the first opening 131. The first male part 115 is arranged to be receivable by a first female part 117 of another such constructional element 100 through a first opening 131. In this way, a first constructional element 100 may be inserted into a second constructional element 100. Alternatively, the second constructional element 100 may be inserted into the first constructional element 100.

The channel 125 is arranged to receive a free edge, such as an edge 113 b of a first side wall 111 b, of another such constructional element 100. Furthermore, the half-channel 125 a is arranged to receive another free edge, such as an edge 113 a of a first side wall 111 a, of the another such constructional element 100 and the half-channel 125 c is similarly arranged to receive another free edge, such as an edge 113 c of a first side wall 111 c, of the another such constructional element 100.

Additionally, the channel 125 is arranged to receive two such free edges of another two such constructional elements 100, arranged adjacently such that, for example, an edge 113 b of the first of the two such constructional elements 100 and an edge 113 d of the second of the two such constructional elements 100 are received in the channel 125. Particularly, the channel 125 is arranged to receive these two such edges between the male coupling members 123 a & 123 b. That is, a width of the channel 125 is arranged to be approximately twice a wall thickness of the first side wall 111 a, 111 b, 111 c & 111 d. Particularly, a resilience of the moulded paper pulp permits the two such edges to be inserted into the channel 125, while a force required to insert the two such edges into the channel 125 is reduced. That is, the first side walls 111 a, 111 b, 111 c& 111 d may be resiliently compressed to facilitate insertion of the two such edges into the channel 125 and may then resiliently expand, for positive engagement of the two such edges in the channel 125. Additionally and/or alternatively, the width of the channel 125 may be increased by resiliently spacing apart the male coupling members 123 a & 123 b, to facilitate insertion of the two such edges into the channel 125, which may then resiliently move together, for positive engagement of the two such edges in the channel 125.

FIG. 2 shows a constructional element 100′ according to an example embodiment of a related invention. The constructional element 100′ comprises a first part 101 and is formed as described above. The constructional element 100′ is hollow, generally cubic and has approximate dimensions 75 mm length by 75 mm width by 75 mm height. In contrast to the constructional element 100 described above, the constructional element 100′ does not comprise a channel 125′, similar to channel 125 of the constructional element 100. However, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the constructional element 100′ may be arranged together with the constructional element 100 e.g. the constructional element 100′ may be received by the constructional element 100.

FIG. 3 shows five constructional elements 100 a-100 e, in use. Particularly, FIG. 3 shows the five constructional elements 100 a-100 e arranged in a first or storage arrangement, in which a first constructional element 100 is inserted into a second constructional element 100 i.e. the constructional elements 100 a-100 e are nested.

The constructional element 100 e is fully inserted into the constructional element 100 d. That is, a first male part 115 of the constructional element 100 e is fully received by a first female part 117 of the constructional element 100 d. Similarly, the constructional element 100 d is fully inserted into the constructional element 100 c i.e. a first male part 115 of the constructional element 100 d is fully received by a first female part 117 of the constructional element 100 c. Similarly, the constructional element 100 c is fully inserted into the constructional element 100 b i.e. a first male part 115 of the constructional element 100 c is fully received by a first female part 117 of the constructional element 100 b. In contrast, the constructional element 100 b is shown only partially inserted into the constructional element 100 a i.e. a first male part 115 of the constructional element 100 b is only partially received by a first female part 117 of the constructional element 100 a. In such an arrangement, a volume of the constructional elements 100 a-100 e may be minimised, facilitating transportation and/or storage for example. Furthermore, in such an arrangement, a structural performance of the constructional elements 100 a-100 e may be improved, facilitating handling for example. It will be appreciated that any number of constructional elements 100 may be arranged in this storage arrangement.

FIG. 4 shows three constructional elements 100 a-100 c, in use. FIG. 4 also shows a constructional element 100′ according to a related invention, as described previously. Particularly, FIG. 4 shows the three constructional elements 100 a-100 c arranged in a second or construction arrangement, in which the constructional element 100 a is interlockingly and/or releasably superimposed on the constructional element 100 b and the constructional element 100 c i.e. the constructional elements 100 a-100 c are stacked.

The constructional element 100 b is arranged adjacent to the constructional element 100 c, in a first layer of constructional elements 100. Particularly, a first sidewall 111 b of the constructional element 100 b is alongside (e.g. opposed to, confronts) a first sidewall 111 d of the constructional element 100 c, with first sidewalls 111 a of the constructional elements 100 b & 100 c coplanar. The constructional element 100 a is superimposed on the first layer of constructional elements, in a second layer of constructional elements 100, spanning (e.g. equally) across the constructional elements 100 b & 100 c. Particularly, an edge 113 b of a first sidewall 111 b of the constructional element 100 a is received in a channel 125 of the constructional element 100 b. Additionally, an edge 113 d of a first sidewall 111 d of the constructional element 100 a is received in a channel 125 of the constructional element 100 c. Further, an edge 113 a of a first sidewall 111 a of the constructional element 100 a is received in half-channels 125 a of both the constructional elements 100 b & 100 c and an edge 113 c of a first sidewall 111 c of the constructional element 100 a is received in half-channels 125 d of both the constructional elements 100 b & 100 c.

It will be appreciated that any number of constructional elements 100 may be arranged in any number of superimposed layers in this construction arrangement, into a wall, for example. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that as a result of an aspect ratio i.e. a shape and/or symmetry of the constructional elements 100, a first constructional element 100 in a lower layer may be arranged transversely to a second constructional element 100 in an upper layer, for example. In this way, relatively more complex structures of the constructional elements 100 may be constructed.

FIG. 5 shows a constructional element 200 according to another example embodiment. The constructional element 200 comprises a first part 201 and a second part 202, coupled with the first part 201 i.e. constructional element 200 is assembled from the first part 201 and the second part 202. The constructional element 200 is moulded as two pieces, the first part 201 and the second part 202 respectively, from paper pulp, similarly having relatively smooth surfaces and relatively uniform wall thicknesses. Particularly, the second part 202 is inserted into the first part 201. The constructional element 200 is hollow, generally cuboidal having 6 walls and has approximate dimensions 150 mm length by 75 mm width by 75 mm height.

FIG. 6A shows the first part 201 in more detail. The first part 201 has four generally trapezoidal, planar first side walls 211 a, 211 b (not shown), 211 c (not shown) & 211 d, arranged mutually perpendicularly. Opposed first side walls (i.e. 211 a & 211 c, 211 b & 211 d) are similarly sized. The first side walls 211 a, 211 b, 211 c & 211 d thus generally taper towards a rectangular first end wall 221. The first side walls 211 a, 211 b, 211 c & 211 d comprise an inward step, arranged to provide a shoulder 251 to receive edges of the second part 202. The free edges 213 a, 213 b (not shown), 213 c (not shown) & 213 d of the first side walls 211 a, 211 b, 211 c & 211 d respectively define a rectangular first opening 231, opposed to the first end wall 221, which is free from obstruction.

The first end wall 221 comprises two male coupling members 223 a & 223 b, that protrude outwards. The two male coupling members 223 a & 223 b are generally cuboidal, having planar outer surfaces. The two male coupling members 223 a & 223 b define a flat-bottomed or square U-shaped channel 225, that extends across the end wall 221 between the first sidewall 211 a and the opposed first sidewall 211 c. Edges formed between the first side walls 211 a, 211 b, 211 c & 211 d and the first end wall 221 define half channels 225 a, 225 b, 225 c (not shown) & 225 d, respectively. The half channels 225 a, 225 b, 225 c & 225 d are substantially L-shaped. Thus, two half channels 225 a, 225 b, 225 c & 225 d arranged adjacently, for example, by arranging two such constructional elements 200 adjacently, define a similar channel 225 also.

The outer surfaces of the first side walls 211 a, 211 b, 211 c & 211 d define a first male part 215. The first male part 215 is substantially convex, free from outward protrusions or obstructions. The inner surfaces of the first side walls 211 a, 211 b, 211 c & 211 d define a first female part 217 (not shown). The first female part 217 is substantially concave, free from inward protrusions or obstructions. The first female part 217 is arranged to receive a first male part 215 of another such constructional element 200 through the first opening 231. The first male part 215 is arranged to be receivable by a first female part 217 of another such constructional element 200 through a first opening 231. In this way, a first constructional element 200 may be inserted into a second constructional element 200. Alternatively, the second constructional element 200 may be inserted into the first constructional element 200.

The channel 225 is arranged to receive a free edge, such as an edge 213 b of a first side wall 211 b, of another such constructional element 200. Furthermore, the half-channel 225 a is arranged to receive another free edge, such as an edge 213 a of a first side wall 211 a, of the another such constructional element 200 and the half-channel 225 c is similarly arranged to receive another free edge, such as an edge 213 c of a first side wall 211 c, of the another such constructional element 200.

Additionally, the channel 225 is arranged to receive two such free edges of another two such constructional elements 200, arranged adjacently such that, for example, an edge 213 b of the first of the two such constructional elements 200 and an edge 213 d of the second of the two such constructional elements 200 are received in the channel 225. Particularly, the channel 225 is arranged to receive these two such between the male coupling members 223 a & 223 b. That is, a width of the channel 225 is arranged to be approximately twice a wall thickness of the first side wall 211 a, 211 b, 211 c & 211 d. Particularly, a resilience of the moulded paper pulp permits the two such edges to be inserted into the channel 225, while a force required to insert the two such edges into the channel 225 is reduced. That is, the first side walls 211 a, 211 b, 211 c & 211 d may be resiliently compressed to facilitate insertion of the two such edges into the channel 225 and may then resiliently expand, for positive engagement of the two such edges in the channel 225. Additionally and/or alternatively, the width of the channel 225 may be increased by resiliently spacing apart the male coupling members 223 a & 223 b, to facilitate insertion of the two such edges into the channel 225, which may then resiliently move together, for positive engagement of the two such edges in the channel 225.

FIG. 6b shows the second part 202 in more detail. The second part 202 has four generally trapezoidal, planar second side walls 212 a, 212 b (not shown), 212 c (not shown) & 212 d, arranged mutually perpendicularly. Opposed second side walls (i.e. 212 a & 212 c, 212 b & 212 d) are similarly sized. The second side walls 212 a, 212 b, 212 c & 212 d thus generally taper towards a rectangular second end wall 222. The free edges 214 a, 214 b, 214 c & 214 d of the second side walls 212 a, 212 b, 212 c & 212 d respectively define a rectangular second opening 232, opposed to the second end wall 222, which is free from obstruction.

The outer surfaces of the second side walls 212 a, 212 b, 212 c & 212 d define a second male part 216. The second male part 216 is substantially convex, free from outward protrusions or obstructions. The inner surfaces of the second side walls 212 a, 212 b, 212 c & 212 d define a second female part 218. The second female part 218 is substantially concave, free from inward protrusions or obstructions. The second female part 218 is arranged to receive a second male part 216 of another such constructional element 200 through the second opening 231. The second male part 216 is arranged to be receivable by a second female part 218 of another such constructional element 200 through a second opening 231. In this way, a first constructional element 200 may be inserted into a second constructional element 200. Alternatively, the second constructional element 200 may be inserted into the first constructional element 200.

Furthermore, the second male part 216 of the second part 202 is arranged to be receivable by the first female part 217 of the first part 201 i.e. the first female part 217 of the first part 201 is arranged to receive the second male part 216 of the second part 202, through the first opening 231 of the first part 201. In this way, the second part 202 may be inserted into the first part 201, forming the assembled constructional element 200 shown in FIG. 5.

The second end wall 222 comprises two female coupling members 224 a & 224 b, that protrude inwards. The two female coupling members 224 a & 224 b are generally cuboidal, having planar inner surfaces.

The female coupling members 224 a & 224 b of the second part 202 are arranged to receive the male coupling members 223 a & 223 b of the first part 201. Particularly, a resilience of the moulded paper pulp permits the male coupling members 223 a & 223 b to be inserted into the female coupling members 224 a & 224 b, while a force required to insert the male coupling members 223 a & 223 b into the female coupling members 224 a & 224 b is reduced. That is, the male coupling members 223 a & 223 b may be resiliently compressed to facilitate insertion of the male coupling members 223 a & 223 b into the female coupling members 224 a & 224 b and may then resiliently expand, for positive engagement of the male coupling members 223 a & 223 b in the female coupling members 224 a & 224 b. Additionally and/or alternatively, sizes of the female coupling members 224 a & 224 b may be resiliently increased, to facilitate insertion of the male coupling members 223 a & 223 b into the female coupling members 224 a & 224 b, for positive engagement.

FIG. 7 shows a constructional element 300 according to another example embodiment, arranged in a first or open configuration. The constructional element 300 comprises a first part 301 and a second part 302, pivotally coupled to the first part 301. The constructional element 300 is moulded as one piece (i.e. the first part 301 and the second part 302 are moulded together) from paper pulp, similarly having relatively smooth surfaces and relatively uniform wall thicknesses. The constructional element 300 is hollow, generally cuboidal having 6 walls and has approximate dimensions 150 mm length by 75 mm width by 150 mm height.

The first part 301 has four generally trapezoidal, planar first side walls 311 a, 311 b, 311 c (not shown) & 311 d, arranged mutually perpendicularly. Opposed first side walls (i.e. 311 a & 311 c, 311 b & 311 d) are similarly sized. The first side walls 311 a, 311 b, 311 c & 311 d thus generally taper towards a rectangular first end wall 321. The free edges 313 a, 313 b, 313 c & 313 d of the first side walls 311 a, 311 b, 311 c & 311 d respectively define a rectangular first opening 331, opposed to the first end wall 321, which is free from obstruction.

The first end wall 321 comprises two male coupling members 323 a & 323 b (not shown), that protrude outwards. The two male coupling members 323 a & 323 b are generally cuboidal, having planar outer surfaces. The two male coupling members 323 a & 323 b define a flat-bottomed or square U-shaped channel 325 (not shown), that extends across the end wall 321 between the first sidewall 311 a and the opposed first sidewall 311 c. Edges formed between the first side walls 311 a, 311 b, 311 c & 311 d and the first end wall 321 define half channels 325 a, 325 b (not shown), 325 c (not shown) & 325 d (not shown), respectively. The half channels 325 a, 325 b, 325 c & 325 d are substantially L-shaped. Thus, two half channels 325 a, 325 b, 325 c & 325 d arranged adjacently, for example, by arranging two such constructional elements 300 adjacently, define a similar channel 325 also.

The outer surfaces of the first side walls 311 a, 311 b, 311 c & 311 d define a first male part 315. The first male part 315 is substantially convex, free from outward protrusions or obstructions. The inner surfaces of the first side walls 311 a, 311 b, 311 c & 311 d define a first female part 317. The first female part 317 is substantially concave, free from inward protrusions or obstructions. The first female part 317 is arranged to receive a first male part 315 of another such constructional element 300 through the first opening 331. The first male part 315 is arranged to be receivable by a first female part 317 of another such constructional element 300 through a first opening 331. In this way, a first constructional element 300 may be inserted into a second constructional element 300. Alternatively, the second constructional element 300 may be inserted into the first constructional element 300.

The channel 325 is arranged to receive a free edge, such as an edge 313 b of a first side wall 311 b, of another such constructional element 300. Furthermore, the half-channel 325 a is arranged to receive another free edge, such as an edge 313 a of a first side wall 311 a, of the another such constructional element 300 and the half-channel 325 c is similarly arranged to receive another free edge, such as an edge 313 c of a first side wall 311 c, of the another such constructional element 300.

Additionally, the channel 325 is arranged to receive two such free edges of another two such constructional elements 300, arranged adjacently such that, for example, an edge 313 b of the first of the two such constructional elements 300 and an edge 313 d of the second of the two such constructional elements 300 are received in the channel 325. Particularly, the channel 325 is arranged to receive these two such edges between the male coupling members 323 a & 323 b. That is, a width of the channel 325 is arranged to be approximately twice a wall thickness of the first side wall 311 a, 311 b, 311 c & 311 d. Particularly, a resilience of the moulded paper pulp permits the two such edges to be inserted into the channel 325 in positive engagement, while a force required to insert the two such edges into the channel 325 is reduced. That is, the first side walls 311 a, 311 b, 311 c & 311 d may be resiliently compressed to facilitate insertion of the two such edges into the channel 325 and may then resiliently expand, for positive engagement of the two such edges in the channel 325. Additionally and/or alternatively, the width of the channel 325 may be increased by resiliently spacing apart the male coupling members 323 a & 323 b, to facilitate insertion of the two such edges into the channel 325, which may then resiliently move together, for positive engagement of the two such edges in the channel 325.

The first part 301 further comprises a first latch member 341, arranged proximal the edge 313 a of the side wall 311 a, opposed to a pivotal coupling member 340, as described in more detail below. The first latch member 341 is arrangeable to engage with a second latch member 342 of the second part 302.

The second part 302 has four generally trapezoidal, planar second side walls 312 a, 312 b, 312 c (not shown) & 312 d, arranged mutually perpendicularly. Opposed second side walls (i.e. 312 a & 312 c, 312 b & 312 d) are similarly sized. The second side walls 312 a, 312 b, 312 c & 312 d thus generally taper towards a rectangular second end wall 322. The free edges 314 a, 314 b, 314 c & 314 d of the second side walls 312 a, 312 b, 312 c & 312 d respectively define a rectangular second opening 332, opposed to the second end wall 322, which is free from obstruction.

The outer surfaces of the second side walls 312 a, 312 b, 312 c & 312 d define a second male part 316. The second male part 316 is substantially convex, free from outward protrusions or obstructions. The inner surfaces of the second side walls 312 a, 312 b, 312 c & 312 d define a second female part 318. The second female part 318 is substantially concave, free from inward protrusions or obstructions. The second female part 318 is arranged to receive a second male part 316 of another such constructional element 300 through the second opening 331. The second male part 316 is arranged to be receivable by a second female part 318 of another such constructional element 300 through a second opening 332. In this way, a first constructional element 300 may be inserted into a second constructional element 300. Alternatively, the second constructional element 300 may be inserted into the first constructional element 300.

The second end wall 322 comprises two female coupling members 324 a & 324 b, that protrude inwards. The two female coupling members 324 a & 324 b are generally cuboidal, having planar inner surfaces. The second end wall 322 and the two female coupling members 324 a & 324 b further define edges 354 a, 354 b, 354 c & 354 d, at the periphery of the end wall 322, proximal the intersections of the second side walls 312 a, 312 b, 312 c & 312 d with the end wall 322, respectively. The second end wall 322 and the two female coupling members 324 a & 324 b further define an edge 354 (not shown) between the two female coupling members 324 a & 324 b.

The female coupling members 324 a & 324 b of the second part 302 are arranged to receive the male coupling members 323 a & 323 b of the first part 301. Particularly, a resilience of the moulded paper pulp permits the male coupling members 323 a & 323 b to be inserted into the female coupling members 324 a & 324 b, while a force required to insert the male coupling members 323 a & 323 b into the female coupling members 324 a & 324 b is reduced. That is, the male coupling members 323 a & 323 b may be resiliently compressed to facilitate insertion of the male coupling members 323 a & 323 b into the female coupling members 324 a & 324 b and may then resiliently expand, for positive engagement of the male coupling members 323 a & 323 b in the female coupling members 324 a & 324 b. Additionally and/or alternatively, sizes of the female coupling members 324 a & 324 b may be resiliently increased, to facilitate insertion of the male coupling members 323 a & 323 b into the female coupling members 324 a & 324 b, for positive engagement.

The second part 302 further comprises the second latch member 342, arranged proximal the edge 314 a of the side wall 312 a, opposed to the pivotal coupling member 340. The second latch member 342 is arrangeable to engage with the first latch member 341 of the first part 301.

The constructional element 300 further comprises the pivotal coupling member 340 i.e. a hinge formed integrally in the moulding of the constructional element 300, arranged to pivotally couple the first part 301 and the second part 302. Particularly, the pivotal coupling member 340 is arranged proximal the edge 313 c of the side wall 311 c of the first part 301 and proximal the edge 314 c of the side wall 312 c of the second part 302. In this way, the constructional element 300 is arrangeable in a second or closed configuration, as described below.

In this open configuration, the constructional element 300 is arrangeable in a nested stack assembled from a plurality of such similarly configured constructional elements 300, as described below.

FIGS. 8A & 8B show the constructional element 300 arranged in the second or closed configuration. Particularly, the first part 301 and second part 302 are pivoted about the pivotal coupling member 340 such that the edges 313 a, 313 b & 313 d of the first part 301 are arranged to confront and/or contact the edges 314 a, 314 b & 314 d of the second part 302. In this closed configuration, the first latch member 341 is arranged to engage with the second latch member 342 of the second part 302. In this closed configuration, the constructional element 300 is arrangeable in a structure assembled from a plurality of such similarly configured constructional elements 300, as described below.

FIGS. 9A & 9B shows a constructional element 300′ according to an embodiment of a related invention. The constructional element 300′ comprises a first part 301′ and a second part 302′ and is formed as described above. The constructional element 300′ is hollow, generally cubic and has approximate dimensions 75 mm length by 75 mm width by 75 mm height. In contrast to the constructional element 300 described above, the constructional element 300′ does not comprise a channel 325′, similar to channel 325 of the constructional element 300. However, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the constructional element 100′ may be arranged with the constructional element 300, as described below.

FIG. 10 shows three constructional elements 300 a-300 c, in use. Particularly, FIG. 10 shows the three constructional elements 300 a-300 c arranged in a first or storage arrangement, in which a first constructional element 300 is inserted into a second constructional element 300 i.e. the constructional elements 300 a-300 c are nested.

The constructional element 300 c is fully inserted into the constructional element 300 b. That is, a first male part 315 c and a second male part 316 c of the constructional element 300 c are fully received by a first female part 317 b and a second female part 318 b of the constructional element 300 b, respectively. Similarly, the constructional element 300 b is fully inserted into the constructional element 300 b i.e. a first male part 315 b and a second male part 316 b of the constructional element 300 b are fully received by a first female part 317 a and a second female part 318 a (not shown) of the constructional element 300 a, respectively. Similarly, the constructional element 300 a has a first male part 315 a and a second male part 316 a. In such an arrangement, a volume of the constructional elements 300 a-300 c may be minimised, facilitating transportation and/or storage for example. Furthermore, in such an arrangement, a structural performance of the constructional elements 300 a-300 c may be improved, facilitating handling for example. It will be appreciated that any number of constructional elements 300 may be arranged in this storage arrangement.

FIGS. 11A & 11B show a constructional element 400 according to another example embodiment, arranged in a second or closed configuration. The constructional element 400 comprises a first part 401 and a second part 402, pivotally coupled to the first part 401. The constructional element 400 is similar to the constructional element 300, as described above. However, male coupling members 423 a & 423 b of the first part 401 of the constructional element 400 are frustoconical and female coupling members 424 a & 424 b of the second part 402 of the constructional element 400 are also frustoconical. In this closed configuration, the constructional element 400 is arrangeable in a structure assembled from a plurality of such similarly configured constructional elements 400, as described above in relation to the constructional element 400.

FIG. 12 shows five constructional elements 400 a-400 e, in use. FIG. 12 also shows two constructional elements 400′b & 400′b according to a related invention, similar as described above in relation to the constructional element 300′. Further, FIG. 12 also shows three constructional elements 400″a-400″c, according to another related invention. Particularly, FIG. 12 shows the five constructional elements 400 a-400 e arranged in a second or construction arrangement, in which the constructional elements 400 a-400 c are interlockingly and/or releasably superimposed on the constructional elements 400 d & 400 e and the constructional elements 400′b & 400′b i.e. the constructional elements 400 a-400 e are stacked. The constructional elements 400″a-400″c are arrangeable in a layer above the constructional elements 400 a-400 c, so as to cover male coupling members 423 a & 423 b of the constructional elements 400 a-400 c and thereby form a generally planar upper surface.

It will be appreciated that any number of constructional elements 300 may be similarly arranged as described in relation to the constructional element 400. That is, any number of constructional elements 300 may be arranged in any number of superimposed layers in a construction arrangement, into a wall, for example. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that as a result of an aspect ratio i.e. a shape and/or symmetry of the constructional elements 300, a first constructional element 300 in a lower layer may be arranged transversely to a second constructional element 300 in an upper layer, for example. In this way, relatively more complex structures of the constructional elements 300 may be constructed.

FIG. 13 shows a constructional element 500 according to another example embodiment, arranged in a first or open configuration. The constructional element 500 comprises a first part 501 and a second part 502, pivotally coupled to the first part 501. The constructional element 500 is similar to the constructional element 300, as described above. However, male coupling members 523 a & 523 b of the first part 501 of the constructional element 500 are parabaloids (i.e. oval cup-shaped) and female coupling members 524 a & 524 b of the second part 502 of the constructional element 500 are also parabaloids (i.e. oval cup-shaped). In this open configuration, the constructional element 500 is arrangeable in a nested stack assembled from a plurality of such similarly configured constructional elements 500, as described above with reference to the constructional element 300.

The first part 501 further comprises first latch members 541 a & 541 b, arrangeable to engage with second latch members 542 a & 542 b of the second part 502, as described previously.

In summary, a hollow constructional element, such as a block, suitable for construction of structures from a plurality of such constructional elements, is provided. The constructional element has a part having a plurality of side walls that taper towards an end wall. The plurality of side walls define a male part and a female part, arranged to receive another such male part of another such constructional element. In this way, a plurality of such constructional elements may be nested for storage, for example. The end wall has a plurality of male coupling members, that define a channel arranged to receive two edges of side walls of two other such constructional elements. In this way, a plurality of such constructional elements may be releasably coupled in a stacked structure. Applications include construction and toys.

Thus, constructional elements according to the present invention may be nested, facilitating storage and/or transportation and/or disposal. Due to a resilience of the constructional elements, a relatively lower force may be required for coupling and/or uncoupling of the constructional elements. Since the constructional elements are hollow, relatively large structures may present a reduced hazard due to falling, for example. Furthermore, the constructional elements may be of a size allowing relatively large structures to be constructed and at the same time, reducing a choking hazard, for example.

Although a few preferred embodiments have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications might be made without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined in any appended claims.

Attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed. 

1. A hollow constructional element comprising: a first part comprising a plurality of first side walls arranged to taper towards a first end wall comprising a plurality of male coupling members; wherein edges of the plurality of first side walls define a first opening opposed to the first end wall; wherein the plurality of male coupling members define a channel therebetween extending between the plurality of first side walls; wherein an outer surface of the plurality of first side walls defines a first male part; and wherein an inner surface of the plurality of first side walls defines a first female part; wherein the first female part is arranged to receive another first male part of another such constructional element through the first opening; wherein the channel is arranged to receive two edges of first side walls of two other such adjacent constructional elements between the plurality of male coupling members; and wherein the edges of opposed first side walls are arranged to be received by channels in two other such adjacent constructional elements.
 2. A hollow constructional element according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of male coupling members define the channel therebetween extending between opposed first side walls.
 3. A hollow constructional element according to claim 1, wherein an edge formed between a side wall of the plurality of first side walls and the first end wall is arranged to define a half channel.
 4. A hollow constructional element according to claim 1, wherein the first part comprises only two male coupling members.
 5. A hollow constructional element according to claim 1, wherein a length of the first part is equal to an integer multiple of a width of first part.
 6. A hollow constructional element according to claim 1, wherein a height of a first side wall of the plurality of first side walls is equal to a width of the first end wall.
 7. A hollow constructional element according to claim 1, wherein the male coupling member comprises a shape selected from a list comprising: cubic, cuboidal, tubular, cylindrical, hemispherical, conical, frustoconical, pyramidal, prismatic, hexagonal prismatic and octagonal prismatic.
 8. A hollow constructional element comprising: a first part comprising a plurality of first side walls arranged to taper towards a first end wall comprising a plurality of male coupling members; wherein edges of the plurality of first side walls define a first opening opposed to the first end wall; wherein the plurality of male coupling members define a channel therebetween extending between the plurality of first side walls; wherein an outer surface of the plurality of first side walls defines a first male part; and wherein an inner surface of the plurality of first side walls defines a first female part; wherein the first female part is arranged to receive another first male part of another such constructional element through the first opening; wherein the constructional element comprises a second part, wherein the second part and the first part are pivotally coupled, comprising a plurality of second side walls and a second end wall comprising a plurality of female coupling members; wherein edges of the plurality of second side walls define a second opening opposed to the second end wall; wherein an outer surface of the plurality of second side walls defines a second male part; and wherein an inner surface of the plurality of second side walls defines a second female part; wherein the second female part is arranged to receive another second male part of another such constructional element through the second opening; and wherein the plurality of female coupling members are arranged to receive male coupling members of a first part of another such constructional element.
 9. The hollow constructional element according to claim 8, wherein the second male part of the second part is arranged to be received by the first female part of the first part through the first opening.
 10. (canceled)
 11. The hollow constructional element according to claim 8, wherein the plurality of second side walls is arranged to taper towards the second end wall.
 12. The hollow constructional element according to claim 8, wherein a female coupling member of the plurality of female coupling members comprises a shape selected from a list comprising: cubic, cuboidal, tubular, cylindrical, hemispherical, conical, frustoconical, pyramidal, prismatic, hexagonal prismatic and octagonal prismatic.
 13. The hollow constructional element according to claim 8, wherein a female coupling member of the plurality of female coupling members is arranged to taper away from an open end of the female coupling member.
 14. The hollow constructional element according to claim 8, wherein the constructional element comprises paper pulp.
 15. The hollow constructional element according to claim 8, wherein the constructional element is a constructional toy.
 16. A hollow constructional element according to claim 8, wherein the first part comprises only two male coupling members.
 17. A hollow constructional element according to claim 8, wherein a length of the first part is equal to an integer multiple of a width of first part.
 18. A hollow constructional element according to claim 8, wherein a height of a first side wall of the plurality of first side walls is equal to a width of the first end wall.
 19. A hollow constructional element according to claim 8, wherein the male coupling member comprises a shape selected from a list comprising: cubic, cuboidal, tubular, cylindrical, hemispherical, conical, frustoconical, pyramidal, prismatic, hexagonal prismatic and octagonal prismatic.
 20. A constructional element according to claim 1, wherein the constructional element comprises paper pulp.
 21. A constructional element according to claim 1, wherein the constructional element is a constructional toy. 